Understanding how brain signals affect muscle control during rapid movements
Official title: Neuromodulation of motoneuronal processing of dynamic synaptic inputs
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11075378 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain signals affect the way nerve cells control quick muscle movements, which could help us understand movement disorders better and find new ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $349,200 |
| NIH project number | 5R37NS135820-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075378 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing motor control issues or conditions that affect muscle movement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable motor function or those not experiencing neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how signals from the brainstem influence the way motoneurons process fast-changing inputs that control muscle movements. By focusing on the effects of neuromodulators like serotonin and norepinephrine, the study aims to uncover how these signals impact the excitability of motoneurons during rapid actions. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the integration of dynamic synaptic inputs, which are crucial for understanding both normal and abnormal motor behaviors in animals. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of motor control and potential therapeutic targets for movement disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions affecting motor control, enhancing the quality of life for patients with movement disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuromodulation in motor control, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heckman, Charles — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Heckman, Charles
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.